SOWEC names new industry co-chair

The Scottish Offshore Wind Energy Council (SOWEC) has appointed Claire Mack as its new industry co-chair, representing Scotland’s offshore wind sector for a two-year term.

Claire, chief executive of Scottish Renewables since 2017, has led efforts to grow Scotland’s renewable energy industry. 

She also sits on the First Minister’s Scottish Energy Advisory Board and the UK Government’s Onshore Wind Industry Taskforce.

In her new role, she will provide strategic leadership to SOWEC, working with its subgroups and developer forum to drive sector growth.

Claire said: “Offshore wind is one of Scotland’s key assets and our ability to turn our 40GW pipeline into successfully delivered projects is pivotal to our environmental and economic aspirations.

“Looking forward to the coming year there are key actions we need to take to enable the next steps of Scotland’s success in delivering offshore projects.  

“I’m confident that industry, with the backing and support of both the Scottish and UK governments, has the expertise, ability and tools available to do so.” 

Claire succeeds Brian McFarlane, who stepped down after helping shape SOWEC’s strategy since its inception in 2019. 

Brian added: “Collaboration is fundamental to the offshore wind industry meeting its full potential and SOWEC plays an important role in bringing the private and public sector together. 

“We need strong leadership of the partnership to tackle challenges and make the most of opportunities during this critical period and Claire brings a wealth of experience in renewables. 

“Thank you to all those who have contributed to SOWEC’s work during my time as co-chair and I wish Claire the best of luck as she takes up her new position.”

Claire’s appointment comes as SOWEC aims to deliver 11GW of offshore wind in Scottish waters by 2030.

Alasdair Allan, acting minister for climate action, added: “Offshore wind is at the heart of the Scottish Government’s economic development agenda and the Scottish Offshore Wind Energy Council (SOWEC) is vital to driving forward action in support of the sector. 

“I am pleased to welcome Claire Mack’s appointment as SOWEC Industry co-chair and look forward to working with her to help ensure the sector continues to create high-quality jobs, reduce Scotland’s carbon emissions and benefits our communities.

“My thanks also to outgoing co-chair Brian McFarlane for his years of dedicated service and all that has been achieved under his leadership.”

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